
fine and the next you’re ready to rip your pants off and rake your fingernails between your hindquarters. Anal itching or pruritus ani can be one of the most annoying, embarrassing, and inconvenient forms of skin irritation. How many of us want to call our doctor’s office and explain the problem over the phone? And the worst part . . . scratching only causes more skin damage. The truth is that anal itching can be caused from a variety of sources. Dry skin, perspiration, yeast infections, medications, and irritation from: excessive hygiene, diarrhea, foods, dyes, chemicals, and laxative use can all can anal itching. Even certain clothing fibers can cause anal itching. Alternatively, it can also be caused from more serious problems like hemorrhoids, fistulas, fissures, tumors and infections. Even skin disorders like seborrhea, psoriasis, and eczema can affect the anal area. Constipation can also lead to anal discomfort. As we age, our skin becomes drier and thinner, which can lead to increased itchiness everywhere including the anal area. Also, medications—especially those that loosen the bowels like antibiotics can contribute to itching. Antibiotics can also lead to yeast infections, which also cause itching. Some people are especially sensitive to certain foods, particularly spicy ones containing curry, cayenne, red pepper or cumin. Beer, nuts, dairy, chocolate, tomatoes and caffeine can cause anal itching. Carbonated beverages have also been reported to cause itching. The dyes used in Kleenex, toilet tissue and clothing can irritate some people’s anal area. Soaps—including bubble bath, laundry, shower gel, and bar soap can lead to dryness and irritation. Sometimes, the perfumes in a product cause the irritation. Even certain birth control products may contribute to anal itching. Pinworms and sexually transmitted diseases are some of the more rare causes of anal itching. A doctor should see any anal itching that persists for weeks. You should also see a doctor for any itching that is accompanied by bleeding, fever, or painful bowel movements. Making a list of your symptoms and concerns before you see a physician may help you discuss the problem more accurately. Because persistent itching can occasionally be a symptom of cancer, it is important that you don’t ignore the problem because of its embarrassing location. One thing that helps an irritated anus is to avoid scrubbing—no matter how good it feels. After bowel movements, cleanse the area thoroughly and gently with water only. You can use a moist cloth, baby wipes or cotton pads—but avoid soap. Dry thoroughly—use a blow dryer if necessary. Placing a dry piece of cotton gauze in the area can also help control moisture, changing it as necessary. Wear lose cotton clothing and underwear. Synthetic fabric clothing that traps moisture is more likely to allow yeast infections to flourish. Once the area is clean and dry, a coating of an oil-based protectorant can prevent further irritation. Vitamin E, tea tree oil, lanolin, petroleum jelly, or cocoa butter based ointments should be applied when the itch is due to irritants like perspiration, diarrhea, and foods. For itching accompanied by swelling, hydrocortisone ointments or vasoconstrictors like Preparation H can be used for limited periods. Natural ingredients like comfrey, chamomile, and aloe vera can be used for longer periods to soothe irritated skin in both children and adults without the risks of hydrocortisone ointments. Another treatment that may promote the healing of an irritated itchy anus is the use of astringents. Astringents promote the drying of skin. Ingredients like witch hazel and zinc oxide are astringents that can relieve burning and itching. Analgesics can be helpful for painful, burning itching. Menthol, camphor and juniper tar can help suppress pain receptors. However, some people are too sensitive to tolerate these ingredients. Certain dietary habits may contribute to anal itching. Keeping your bowel movements regular and avoiding constipation may alleviate some itching. Fiber promotes natural lubrication to the intestinal tract, which keeps anal glands working normally. Drinking plenty of water also promotes the body’s natural lubrication process by preventing dryness in the anal area. Source: Article provided by purchaseremedies.com contributing expert author and researcher Sheli Ellsworth
Discomfort |
| Thank You for Visiting Purchase Remedies.com |




